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| History Lessons: The Second Age by Nilmandra | 15 Review(s) |
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| lwarren | Reviewed Chapter: 23 on 12/7/2004 |
| This is just the best, Nilmandra, and I think the addition of the 3 kids during the flight is one of the big reasons, for me at least! It really is the children who pay the biggest price during wartime. These 3 - grieving, yet wanting to help and earn a place in the group...I was so glad Glorfindel took them over, and he did such a great job with them too! Naming the little group - giving them jobs - looking at their strengths and what they COULD do, not at what their ages prevented them from doing - he was wonderful! But the best times were when he was able to comfort them *sniff*...and there's a line where you talk about the younger warriors being drawn to him as an example of the right way to live...and the elf-maidens looking to him to know how a lady ought to be treated...He is a HERO...well worth looking up to! Gee, I like your Glorfindel...and Erestor too. He just makes me want to take him home and baby him a little until he heals from all that he's seen and done during the war. Other cool parts - the drawing Elrond makes of the valley...and Erestor finding it...way cool! and mystical too. :-) The trip through Celeborn's and Galadriel's old home - how sad to recognize bits and pieces that time has all but eroded away! Celeborn finding the forge - got kind of shivery over that little scene. The 3 children still being a part of Imladris...the guard at Tharbad's reaction to Arwen and the sight of all that living legend walking (riding) right past him...Just a superior chapter! Thank you! linda Author Reply: I am glad you like Glorfindel! A rehoused elf, regained innocence but with the power of a maia - he is very much the favorite and much loved 'uncle' of Imladris (at least my Imladris!). It is so hard to imagine what the humans must have thought, to see figures from history - hundreds of years old, still looking (except for their eyes, perhaps) as young as they did in the paintings. Glad you liked the chapter. :-) | |
| Marnie | Reviewed Chapter: 23 on 11/1/2004 |
| Can't believe I didn't review this chapter! Where is my head? Particularly as there were so many great things in it. Where to start? I loved (naturally) Celeborn showing off on the rope bridge, and the enterprising children who are nevertheless still children. I loved Arwen being only the last in a line of girls who had Glorfindel wrapped about her little finger, and Elrond's claim that it was all Galadriel's fault. More poignantly, I loved the sight of Celebrimbor's forge, still with the ashes in it. The Rings are a very powerful presence in this story, even though they've only ever been used once. and I liked the fact that Elrond, who is a war orphan himself, was able to make a home for these other children of disaster. Very touching. Author Reply: The rings have been a big part of the story, even if they're seldom seen or used. It is interesting to get into Elrond's head and see how he may have weighed out the consequences of using Vilya - and I think where he might of thought on a grand scale at times, it is usually the immediate world - one's own home - that precipitates action. Glad you liked Celeborn racing on the rope! He is a bit of a show off :-) | |
| Eruanneth_Luin | Reviewed Chapter: 23 on 10/26/2004 |
| Nilmandra, My heartfelt thanks again for bringing the Second Age (and some of the Third Age) to life. Arwen and I suffered alike from cliffhanger syndrome, which made the wait for this chapter seem endless. Foreshadowings every where, with past and present coming together. It makes a greater impact to walk across the lands and through the ruins than just hear the tales. And the men in Tharbad who saw ancient drawings come to life without a hint of age or decay vividly bring to the mind the fact that elves are NOT men. Perhaps what gets Elrond through his many loses is combined heritage of elf, maia and mortal. Where ever he gets it, he certainly needs it in abundance. Thank you again for this wonderful tale, that I think would please the heart of Master Tolkien. Author Reply: Elrond certainly is acquainted with grief, isn't he? Thank you for your wonderful support over the long course of this story - and it thrills me if you think Tolkien would be pleased - if he does not turn over in his grave in disgust, I would be glad! | |
| Dot | Reviewed Chapter: 23 on 10/17/2004 |
| Phew, I made it before you posted the next one!! Another amazing chapter. It was tough to read in parts and I imagine tough to write but I guess it’s through the experiences of children that we really see the effect of war. And yay, we finally come to Imladris! What an exciting time. I really liked the opening with Arwen still feeling the emotion of the previous night’s story. Her sensitivity and deep emotions are such an elfy trait. It seems she’s still learning to see Glorfindel in a new way. Actually, it would be interesting to see their relationship when she’s older. It’d be very different from his relationship with her brothers, yet it would have to move beyond him doting upon her, although he’d still love her as though she were his own. Hmmn. “Though they would not speak of it, they did agree: it was Erestor who was not the same again.” I know I’ve said it before but I’ve really gained SUCH respect for Erestor. And you really make me just want to give him a great big hug…;-) “We can take guard shifts by her door! I suspect, however, that in the future, much as now, when Arwen makes up her mind about something, there will be little to deter her.” I’m not even going to comment on that one!! It must be truly odd for the Men to see these historic figures, some of whose images adorn their walls just walk straight into the city. And it was so fascinating to watch Celebrían, Celeborn and Galadriel walk around their old home. It’s sad to see such a beautiful and thriving place now in ruins and all but forgotten by time but at the same time it’s so wonderful for Celebrían to have this chance to show something of her past to her children and let them see where the tales they have heard took place. It must be quite strange for Elrond to know that he can never revisit Balar and see if he can recapture any memories there because it is lost under the sea. It’s hard to even comprehend that. But that was all so long ago and I hope such thoughts don’t trouble him. That image of Celeborn crumbling the soot from Celebrimbor’s forge… wow. I wonder what he felt being back to where it all began. He’s already seen some of the effect of Nenya on his wife and must have an inkling of what the future holds if she continues to wield it. As Elrond thinks, he must indeed regret that the rings weren’t destroyed if they had to be forged at all in the first place. It makes me realise just how deep his love for Galadriel is. “You were just as charming. It was difficult to refuse you anything as a child, and that has not lessened much since you have become such a fine adult.” You know, I really was never much of a Galadriel fan, not in the books and not in the films. But you really do a tremendous job in making her come alive for me and you give her such depth. I particularly love to see the moments where she really is just their grandmother. And it’s always wonderful to see moments of light-heartedness between these characters. Irritable and stubborn Elrond always makes great reading. He actually makes an excellent leader and tactician too. It must be endlessly interesting to his children to hear of this side of him. I like that he recognised the desperate need of the three grieving children to something of some help and allowed them to participate. And Glorfindel, of course, is fantastic with them. As Elrond made them feel useful, he made them feel that their efforts were worthy of praise. And they really are so amazing. They certainly do work well together. Elrond sketching the Hidden Valley was such a magical moment. In the midst of all this war and destruction he looks to not just a place that is ‘defensible’, but that is beautiful. Of course I know they find it but still, it really made me *want* them to find it!! Oh, that image of the children sleeping by Glorfindel, soothed by his touch, was just so incredibly moving. I’m glad they can find comfort and, of course, he willingly offers it where he can. It’s quite touching too to think of Erestor watching Glorfindel as he watches over Elrond. The bonds of love and friendship are clear to see. Even the idea of a rope bridge makes me cringe, not to mind read about them running back and forth across it. These elves are regular boy scouts. I’d be still sitting a nice safe distance from the edge, wondering what on earth I was going to do next. Those children! Disobedient, but so very brave. I was on the edge of my seat once the Orc arrows started flying. But what I liked most about this part, I think, is seeing them finally give into their sheer exhaustion and fear and seeing Glorfindel and Celeborn cradle them. It’s a stark reminder that for all their courage, these are still children who should never even have to imagine such events, not even in play. It brought tears to my eyes to see Celeborn sitting silently next to Eirien’s mother, holding her hand. Mostly I’m glad that she has been shocked into awakening from her stupor even though it is in such a horrific way but she’s going to need the support now of those around her. How generous of first Elrond and now Celeborn to offer her some comfort. Although, it doesn’t take much to realise that Celeborn is probably thinking of his own cherished daughter and her beloved mother. Ah, and Erestor finds Imladris! What a spectacular moment. I could really feel a sense of wonder and awe. And yes, I gave a little cheer…! How absolutely wonderful that the three children went on to find a good life in Imladris. Athranen and Angren are obviously of some importance – I’m guessing Glorfindel trained them to see that obedience is just as important as skill in a warrior! – and I’m so happy that Athranen and Eirien found happiness together. “As Imladris settled and children were born, it was to the giant golden haired warrior they flocked; him they wished to hear sing; him the young males emulated and from whom the young females learned how they should be treated by a courtly elf.” That’s so beautiful, Nilmandra. I don’t think a better thing could be said about anyone. Glorfindel is all these things, yet he remains himself, asking for nothing in return except that those whom he loves are safe and happy. The ending of this chapter was done very well, I thought. Listening to these tales of hardship and bravery, especially when it involves people he knows, it must be difficult for Elladan to just accept the peace that they struggled for and not play his own part in it. But of course, his time will come and most present know that this is inevitable. Still, for now may they experience such horror only through the stories of their elders. A really great chapter. :-) Author Reply: Thank you for the wonderful review, Dot. I have not been feeling well and these chapters have been slow in coming, and your kind words came at just the right time to help inspire me to continue. I am glad you liked the children. Real life stories of the part children have played in times of war and hardship have always humbled me, for their lost innocence and courage, and how they rise to do what is needed. While physically they handled themselves well, the emotional breaking point had to come, and especially for the ellon, being orphans, they need a male figure to hold on to. Elrond is a fun character to write - I want to make him a quietly strong and confident leader, but one who still gets irritable and angry at times. He is fortunate to have Glorfindel, someone who can speak honestly to him without fear of reproach. I wanted Erestor to come across as changed, so I am glad he does. The war affected him greatly, and I think when Elrond sails (in my world) Erestor will go with him. I don't think he can stay any longer either. Thanks again! | |
| LKK | Reviewed Chapter: 23 on 10/5/2004 |
| “Arwen is a beautiful child,” said Elrohir. Then he growled, “I suppose it will take all of us to chase away her suitors as she comes of age.” Elrond laughed. “We can take guard shifts by her door! I suspect, however, that in the future, much as now, when Arwen makes up her mind about something, there will be little to deter her.” Truer words were never spoken, Elrond. I doubt he would have been so flippant had Elrond known just who Arwen would make up her mind for. :( I liked the story of how the young ones aided in the elves' retreat. I can picture the twins and Arwen behaving in a similar way should the need arise. Although Erestor claims Glorfindel was changed after the hit on the head, I don't think so. I think the golden-haired warrior was always like that, but up until then, had no opportunity to demonstrate that facet of his personality. :) Author Reply: I am glad you like Glorfindel in his 'uncle' role - I really did mean to have the children attach on to Elrond, but they wouldn't take their eyes off of Glorfindel! I think it must be the light of Valinor shining in him - it attracts them like moths to the flame. :-) | |
| Elenluin | Reviewed Chapter: 23 on 10/5/2004 |
| I've been reading your 'history lessons' for a while now, and thought it was time to tell you that they are magnificently told :D You are so good in characterising Elrond and the others, as a reader, you almost seem to know them... The innocence of Glorfindel, the fact that you can just feel that Elrond has been through a lot, although it is not always explicitly mentioned... I hope that there are many more stories to be told! Author Reply: Hello Elenluin - thanks for leaving the note! Its always wonderful to hear from a reader for the first time. I am glad you like the stories and the characterizations. And there are always more stories to be told, more people of Middle-earth to meet. :-) | |
| Bodkin | Reviewed Chapter: 23 on 10/5/2004 |
| Brilliant, just brilliant. I love all these elves - they are so noble and loving and . . . all the things elves should be. Arwen's concern for Elrond is so touching, as is her new view of Glorfindel (I think the jealousy monster is effectively killed off there). I'm with the guard of Tharbad in being enchanted by her. And I agree with Elrond that Celeborn is responsible for this - Galadriel, Celebrian and Arwen - what a combination! (Mind you, Celeborn and Elrond are not without input into the younger two.) The determination to get her own way seems part of her inheritance, as well. Even here, thoughts of Estel, mortality and eternal division are not far away. I can see Elladan (particularly) and Elrohir listening to this with the kind of half-envy that boys get when hearing tales of battle and honour, but what a nasty twist with the reader knowing so much of what all of these characters will have to endure. The introduction of the young elves - and Arthranen's words - make it so clear how valuable is the opportunity for a childhood of innocent safety. And Glorfindel makes a superb substitute adar. It was fascinating watching them investigating the ruins of Ost-in-Edhil - it seems bizarre to be able to go back and see a former home ruined by time. The destruction of war is at least quick, but the weathering of the years cuts them off from somewhere that meant a lot to them. I wonder if Elrond's inability to go back is worse or not. (I don't think I'm being very coherent here.) Sometimes going back is not such a good thing. (I feel that with Galadriel and Aman, really - exiles can yearn for home, only to find that when they get there, it is no longer home. Water cannot pass under the same bridge twice, and all that.) (By the way - 'French Calvary School' - I think it's Cavalry.) The way Elrond and Glorfindel feel about Erestor and his initiation into the hideous world of war is beautiful - even after all this time, they still grieve over it. And even there is the foreshadowing of grief to come. Poor Elrond. The Valar were really mean in their treatment of that elf. Whatever good happened to him seemed to be only in preparation for another kick in the teeth. It is a good thing that he had the first part of the Third Age to be happy. In Rivendell. Which they have now found. Brilliant. Author Reply: I agree about poor Elrond. He could hold on to nothing too tightly in that world, because it was ll eventually ripped from his hands. I do like writing him at times of happiness. I was not sure if him never seeing Balar again was a good or bad thing - I was thinking worse, because again there is no chance for goodbye. Celebrian can hold a stone, remember a river or the way the sun rose over the mountains - and these things can recall cherished memories. Elrond doesn't have that - the island is gone, only his memory remains. Glorfindel did make a good foster adar, didn't he? I had honestly intended for the kids to glomp on to Elrond, maybe in recognition of another orphan, but the kids couldn't keep their eyes off of Glorfindel. :-) | |
| daw the minstrel | Reviewed Chapter: 23 on 10/4/2004 |
| The three things I liked best about this chapter were The finding of the valley of Imladris -- I thought that was exciting! It was like seeing history at work. We know what Imladris meant for millennia after this, so to see it being found was just thrilling. Go Erestor! The inclusion of the children -- their presence showed something about how horrible the war was without you having to belabor the point. Also I liked the way Glorfindel took them on and cared for them, and then they turned up as adults in the camp. Cool. The visit to Celebrian's childhood home -- and the sad reminder that Elrond couldn't do that. I think most kids would find it fun to see their mother's home town. I was thinking too about how there's more of the ruins here at the start of the Third Age than there will be when the Fellowship goes through thousands of years later. Author Reply: Thanks - I am glad the children came across well. I have read so many accounts of how courageous children are in terrible situations, and decided this story needed some heroic elflings. Seeing your home amdist ruins would be hard...but I can't imagine what its like to have the land physically gone - poof! nothing left. See kids, there used to be a huge land west of Lindon but the Valar sank it....it must be like us hearing tales of Atlantis. | |
| meckinock | Reviewed Chapter: 23 on 10/4/2004 |
| Elrond laughed. “We can take guard shifts by her door! I suspect, however, that in the future, much as now, when Arwen makes up her mind about something, there will be little to deter her.” Oh, yeah. Now he laughs. This chapter was so bittersweet in a way, because once again it spotlights Elrond in a freeze-frame of rare happiness. The ruins of Ost-in-Edhil lie beneath his feet and the grief and loss of the future hover somewhere in the distance, but for this moment he is safe and joyful in the love of his family. It's a testament to his strength that he will somehow recover after Celebrian's suffering and departure. And let's not even get into the whole Arwen mess. Tolkien put a lot onto this guy's shoulders, for sure. It's nice to see him happy. Glorfindel is such a mensch, as usual, not only looking after poor, beat-up Elrond but finding some lost urchins to foster as well. The children were so brave and resourceful. And Erestor steals the whole show. I really enjoyed seeing the first glimpse of Imladris through his eyes. Author Reply: I am glad you like my Erestor and Glorfindel - two very compassionate elves who react quite differently. I was trying to figure out what different perspective a reborn/re-embodied elf has on the world...and Tolkien says they regained their innocence. Seemed to me that someone like that would relate well to children :-) And I like to give Elrond some happy moments, poor guy. And why is it that anything you write showing happiness for him ends up having some foreboding to it? He sure does get whacked on. | |
| The Karenator | Reviewed Chapter: 23 on 10/4/2004 |
| I've enjoyed every chapter of this tale, but this one seems to be my favorite. However, I do reserve the right to have more favorites. :>) I'm not sure exactly why I've singled this one out, but as I thought about it, I think it's the complex escape, and the introduction of the three children. These three were wonderful additions. It's funny how in the face of such danger and the scramble to survive, the children adapted so quickly, but they were still children. You did a very nice job of balancing the 'street wise kid' with the ordinary kid. The finding of Imladris was fascinating. I think that ring Elrond has will come in handy after all. Your description was wonderful. Very visual. Your characters continue to be a gold mine. I feel like a new vein is uncovered in each chapter. And now we know what happened when Glorfindel got whacked on the head.... :>) Very, very good, Nilmandra. Just wonderful. I look forward to another installment. Karen Author Reply: Thanks, Karen :-) I feel like each time I start to write the next story, since these are really a bunch of smaller stories woven together, I uncover another vein of gold. Its why writing them takes so long! (poor daw, this chapter was 10,000 words!). I am glad the children came through well - I was so moved by the real life stories I read - and they had that quality too - the kids did do heroic and brave things..but they were still children. Glorfindel seemed to know that - but then, as a reborn/re-embodied elf he has regained the innocence like he had in childhood too. Perhaps he relates. Next chapter: The siege of Imladris, the arrival of Numenor and Gilgalad - and Elrond meets Celebrian :d | |